I'm considering picking up a Ruger Super Redhawk in .480 Ruger as a pin shoot revolver, range toy and maybe some day for hunting. On paper it looks like an ideal pin shoot round, more pop than a .44 magnum, lighter recoil and lower pressure than a .454 casull, ability to use 410grain bullets, heavy 53oz frame to get back on target. I don't know how well they hold up in the long run though. If I use a .480 Ruger for pin shoot competitions, I could easily put 400-500 rounds through it a year. If I have to rebuild/replace it every few years I might be better just sticking with .44 magnum. I've heard that the dirty little secret about the .500S&W is that the barrels and cylinders have to be replaced every 2000 rounds but most .500S&W owners will never get to 2000 rounds and some only make it to 5 before selling it. I imaging the .460S&W has the same issues in not greater. Its commonly noted that the .357 maximum died off because of flame cutting issues after a few thousand rounds. How have other bore revolvers faired in the long term?
Also of consideration how well does the brass hold up? Since factory rounds are about $1.50 each I would plan on reloading. It would be nice to get more than 3-4 uses out of the brass.
Also of consideration how well does the brass hold up? Since factory rounds are about $1.50 each I would plan on reloading. It would be nice to get more than 3-4 uses out of the brass.